The Belgian Groenendael is one of four varieties of Belgian Sheepdogs. The breed was named for the village of Groenendael in Belgium. All Belgian Sheepdogs are hardy working dogs with strong natural herding instincts and abilities. The Belgian Groenendael was initially developed by a breeder from Groenendael named Nicholas Rose. He cross bred the Petite and Picard d’Uccle sheepdogs. Their litter became the foundation for the Belgian Groenendael. Since that time, the breed has been used for police work, drug detection, military work, and rescue.